Fiorentina's Zaniolo Denies Assaulting Roma Youth Players After Primavera Match

Nicolo Zaniolo, currently on loan at Fiorentina from Galatasaray, has been accused by his former club AS Roma of entering the Roma Primavera youth team's dressing room after a match and physically assaulting two youth players following provocative behavior. Roma stated that the incident occurred after a 2-1 youth championship match, with the players requiring hospital treatment. Zaniolo denied the physical assault allegations, admitting only to losing his temper verbally after being provoked, and apologized for his reaction, emphasizing that no physical aggression took place. He explained he entered the dressing room intending to congratulate both teams but left after insults were directed at him to avoid escalation. AS Roma condemned the incident and called for disciplinary actions, while Fiorentina has not disputed Zaniolo's account. The situation has stirred controversy in Italian football, raising questions about conduct and accountability in youth soccer environments.